Doctor in the House

Now that the 12th Doctor Who has been decided, I thought we'd take a look at some other doctors – and nurses -- of primetime TV.

Medical drama has been a staple of television from the beginning. I have vague memories of the series Ben Casey and Dr. Kildare. In the late 60s and early 70s, I faithfully watched Medical Center, Marcus Welby, M.D., and The Bold Ones: the Doctors. The 80s brought St. Elsewhere. The 90s gave us ER. The 21st century ushered the brilliant but deeply flawed Dr. Gregory House into our homes.

And so it continues. No matter how unusual the medical problems or how advanced the methods used to treat the conditions, the stories are really about the people in medical professions. Yes, we often get to know the patient, but that patient won’t be there next week. We tune in for the doctors and nurses and the drama in their lives.

Honorable mention: Doc McStuffins (2012-present) – Yes, it’s a cartoon show for kids. But it’s sweet and charming and presents a great main character, a little girl who communicates with and heals her toys and stuffed animals. A fun series to watch with young kids.

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